National Aeronca Association Bulletin Board

...in the process of repairing seat straps, I noticed my seat back was bent.
I'm assuming it would be a stronger repair to heat it first, then straighten...? I was also thinking of welding a flat piece to the tubing in the bend area to strengthen it. Has this happened to you, any ideas? We all already know about the seat back that failed in flight, even though it was a different style seat, I would still like to fix this, because the bend, in combination with the straps stretched out of shape over the years is causing the rear stick to touch the seat back upholstery. thanks, Jim

Jim, it would be fine to heat the bent area first then bend it back. In fact it will make it much easier to get back straight, and shouldn't affect the strength. I don't think an extra strap would be necessary. But consider this; it may have been bent on purpose to make it more comfortable. I've but some serious thought into doing it on my seats. Plus I'm 6'2" and could use just a touch more space to fold up into.

FYI: my rear stick hits the upholstery on the straight seat.

How bad will it hinder the stick once the webbing is repaired? Is it comfortable right now?

nkh

This usually happens over time as rear seat occupants grab the top of the front seat back for suport as they get in and out of the rear seat.

Do that in my Champ, and I break their wrists <g>.

Just like the guy behind you in a movie or an airline seat who grabs the top of your seat to hoist himself in or out - how rude; but most people do it without thinking about it.

I found a crack on front seat in the angled brace that connects to the bottom of seat and goes up to the seat back. Does anyone know what type material should be used to replace the tubing that has been flattened out on both ends and welded to the seat back and bottom? Or is there another fixed used for this problem?
Thanks in advance

Joey, print 2-710 shows it to be 1025 steel. BTW, this happens when a big boy gets in the front seat. We think an internal splice is the fix. David J., Jasper, GA

You must remember when these airplanes were built everyone weighed 145-160 pounds and wore size 8 shoes. Then came doctored food.

Jim,
If there's no cracks you might think about leaving it. Even with that style of adjustable seat, they don't have too much room for a big lunk like me.
Paul

Thanks guys...and yes I am the runt of 5 boys in my family and I am 6' 240lbs...been eating too many of dem doctored biscuits!..thanks for the info.